Thanks to Terry for a very informative post. I had a very positive experience with a Lees Ferry Anglers guide last week. I was wading a popular bar and the guide anchored next to my boat and asked if I minded their fishing the back of the bar. He took the time to thank me when they pulled out and then later in the day he stopped to ask how I was doing and thanked me again! Ferry rainbows aren't just pretty by the way--those are some of the hardest fighting trout I have ever encountered.

__________________Somebody just back of you while you are fishing is as bad as someone looking over your shoulder while you write a letter to your girl.
---Ernest Hemingway

I've fished the San Juan River since I was 9-10 years old since 1969 and encounter more issue then because we were little native invaders on this river and fished where we wanted but sometimes the fly fisherman would say we can't fish there, but being from there you just didn't listen to those visitors.
Now days and since I was 20 years old and fly fishing my heart out since 1979 with proper gear on the Juan. I have had maybe less than a handfull of bad encounter and if it was going in the wrong direction I just moved on, there is plenty of river space even when it very busy with tons of fly casters. You just change your approach and anyway most fishermen nymph on the Juan and that's not what I like to do, I'd rather find knee deep water, look for shadows, and sight cast all day. I do have perference to the Juan anyway it's home water for me....but in no way do I see or be part of any arguing for river spots and it's funny to see grown men fighting over a nymphing hole....when you will do better fishing dries.....

I have never been to Lees Ferry, but have wanted to go for some time. Just booked a trip with my wife for March 17-20. I am looking forward to the beauty, spending time with my bride and learning as much as possible from our guide. If we get decent action with fish in the teens I am sure my wife will be thrilled, and that will suit me fine.